Articles & Answers:
How to Develop an Exercise Habit
How to Develop an Exercise Habit
Just knowing that something is good for you doesn't make it easy to do.
Exercise has been shown to improve emotional problems such as depression and anxiety, and to have a positive effect on self-concept. These psychological benefits are in addition to the physical benefits we've heard so much about: increased strength and flexibility, increased bone density, increased stamina, and increased resistance to many diseases.
Think First:
Psychologists who study how people form new habits say that it is done in stages. First a person thinks about a change. Later they initiate the change, first trying it out, and then gradually it becomes habitual and well established. Before you change your behavior, there has to be enough thinking about it so that you feel ready, with good plans and attitudes.
Commitment to the change, and a realistic view of how difficult it might be, are necessary. Appreciate small improvements, because they are important building blocks.
A Personal Program:
Use your personal preferences to decide the details, such as which exercises, and when. If you're a morning person, exercise in the morning. If you'd rather dance than jog, then dance. Would you rather exercise with others, or alone? Outdoors, or in? Be creative and flexible. Work out a program specially tailored to you!
